Little or nothing is ripe in the Land of Oceana as our growing season concludes another trip around the sun. Christmas tree harvest is still ongoing. A few soybeans and additional corn acres still remain. A late fall has given growers more time for the numerous farm jobs always on our doorstep. Windy conditions have slowed the progress of fall herbicides. Dry conditions have hindered winter wheat planting and emergence and have greatly increased fire potential for everyone.
The apple harvest went well this year, with most producers having adequate labor. Rain delays for harvest were few. The crop size varied by farm but was mostly good. Apple size was respectable, and markets were improved over last year. Tree trimming will start soon as leaves fall, making limbs easier to see. For non-fruit growers’ equipment needs to be winterized, repaired and stored.
As the calendar year closes, planning for a new year begins. Growers can capitalize on early season discounts by ordering and paying for inputs of seed, fertilizer and crop protection materials. Early orders can realize discounts of 14 percent. Tax planning is a year around issue and crunch time is here. Meeting with the tax advisor can save money moving forward.
Winter brings meeting season. Many farm organizations are already scheduling into March 2025, with The Great Lakes Expo on tap for December early in Grand Rapids. Marketing plans are also being formulated to maximize returns (or minimize losses) for next year.
As we enter the Thanksgiving season, we need to remind ourselves that even though it has been a rough year, agriculturally speaking, we still have many blessings to be thankful for.
